Fix a Sagging Gutter

Over time, gutters sag due to backed up water and debris, changes in temperatures and high winds. Most gutter systems are either held to the roof with long spikes or on brackets or hangers. You can fix a sagging gutter by re-installing the fasteners that hold it in place.

Steps

Fix Gutter Spikes

  1. Pull the loose gutter spikes out with the claw end of a hammer or pry bar. Inspect them to determine whether you need to buy new spikes.
    • If the spikes aren't threaded, you'll need to replace them all with new threaded spikes.
    • If the spikes are already threaded, you can re-use any that aren't bent or damaged.
  2. Thread the spikes into the old holes through the gutter and into the fascia.
  3. Add wood to make it a tight fit. Dip slivers of wood, or possibly wooden golf tees if they fit in the old hole, in an all-weather epoxy or adhesive, and slide the pieces into the hole along the sides of the threaded spikes to tightly secure it into the hole.

Fix Gutter Brackets

  1. Remove the section of sagging gutter from the loose gutter brackets.
  2. Take all the screws out that hold the brackets to the fascia.
  3. Fill the screw holes with a weatherproof, exterior caulk and let the caulk dry completely.
  4. Drill new pilot holes for the brackets. They should be at the same height and angle as the old holes to avoid shifting the pitch of the gutter, which can cause water to back up.
  5. Attach the gutter brackets in the new holes.
  6. Put the gutters back in the brackets.

Fix Gutter Hangers

  1. Pull the hangers out from underneath the shingles or roofing material.
  2. Replace damaged hangers.
  3. Reposition undamaged hangers to a better spot under the roofing material, where they will be held more securely in place.



Tips

  • After fixing your sagging gutters, run some water through them to make sure they are at the correct pitch and that no water is left pooling inside the gutters.
  • If you're unsure if your gutters are sagging or not, check for standing water or water marks inside the gutters.
  • Gutters should slope slightly downward to the spout. A good rule of thumb is a 1/4 inch (about 6 mm) slope for every 10 feet (3 m) of the gutter.

Things You'll Need

  • Ladder
  • Hammer or pry bar
  • Spikes or hangers
  • Wood slivers or golf tees
  • All-weather epoxy or caulk
  • Drill
  • Screwdriver

Related Articles

  • Repair Gutters
  • Unclog Gutters and Downspouts
  • Choose a Gutter System
  • Paint Galvanized Gutters and Downspouts

Sources and Citations

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